Extracorporeal photochemotherapy for Epstein-Barr virus-associated lymphoma after lung transplantation
Schoch, O.D.; Boehler, A.; Speich, R.; Nestle, F.O.
Transplantation 68(7): 1056-1058
1999
ISSN/ISBN: 0041-1337 PMID: 10532551 Document Number: 508130
Posttransplantation lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD) is a serious complication after transplantation of solid organs. Highest incidence rates have been reported for lung transplant recipients. With the current treatment strategy for early onset PTLD, a reduction of immunosuppressive drugs, mortality of lung transplant recipients with PTLD remains high, due to both, incomplete control of PTLD and transplant rejection. We present a lung transplant recipient with a history of acute rejection and Epstein Barr virus-associated posttransplantation malignant non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Extracorporeal photochemotherapy, in combination with a moderate reduction of immunosuppressive therapy, resulted in complete disappearance of PTLD. After a first year of follow-up, no further rejection and no recurrence of PTLD have occurred. Treatment with ECP, with its beneficial effects on both, rejection after organ transplantation and malignant lymphoma, may be a particularly valuable approach for the trea tment of PTLD in patients after lung transplantation, with its increased risk for transplant rejection.